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Basiliximab Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 8, 2024.

Applies to basiliximab: intravenous powder for solution.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

Intravenous route (powder for solution)

Only physicians experienced in immunosuppression therapy and management of organ transplantation patients should prescribe basiliximab.

The physician responsible for basiliximab administration should have complete information requisite for the follow-up of the patient.

Patients receiving the drug should be managed in facilities equipped and staffed with adequate laboratory and supportive medical resources.

Precautions

If you are continuing your course of therapy with basiliximab after you are discharged from the hospital, it is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. Your doctor will want to do laboratory tests to make sure basiliximab is working properly.

It is important to maintain good dental hygiene and see a dentist regularly for teeth cleaning.

If you are a woman of childbearing age, you should use effective contraception while receiving this medicine and for 2 months after treatment with basiliximab is completed.

Serious side effects of basiliximab

Along with its needed effects, basiliximab may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur while taking basiliximab:

More common side effects

  • abdominal pain
  • back pain
  • coughing
  • dizziness
  • fever or chills
  • loss of energy or weakness
  • painful urination
  • shortness of breath
  • sore throat
  • swelling of the ankles, body, face, feet or lower legs
  • trembling or shaking of the hands or feet
  • vomiting
  • white patches in the mouth or throat or on the tongue

Less common side effects

  • abnormal vision
  • agitation
  • anxiety
  • bleeding, tender, or enlarged gums
  • blood in the stool
  • bruising
  • chest pain
  • depression
  • difficulty in urinating
  • fatigue
  • itching
  • numbness or pain in the legs
  • skin rash
  • sores in the mouth
  • “stocking and gloves” sensation of the hands or feet
  • tingling

Other side effects of basiliximab

Some side effects of basiliximab may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

  • acne
  • constipation
  • diarrhea
  • headache
  • heartburn
  • nausea
  • trouble in sleeping
  • weight gain

Less common side effects

  • excessive hair growth
  • joint pain
  • muscle pain

For healthcare professionals

Applies to basiliximab: intravenous powder for injection.

Cardiovascular adverse events

Hematologic

Hypersensitivity

Immunologic

Musculoskeletal

Ocular

Metabolic

Psychiatric

Genitourinary

Respiratory

Other

Nervous system

Renal

Dermatologic

Endocrine

Gastrointestinal

References

1. (2001) "Product Information. Simulect (basiliximab)." Novartis Pharmaceuticals

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information."

Does Basiliximab interact with my other drugs?

Enter medications to view a detailed interaction report using our Drug Interaction Checker.

Further information

Basiliximab side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.